It's a Flat Rock Fourth of July

Neighbors Editor

FLAT ROCK -- While much of the world has turned cynical as wars rage, politicians make empty promises, oil prices daily crack new barriers and neighbors fight over petty differences, tiny Flat Rock, Ohio, continues to show the region just how -- on one day out of the year -- a hometown celebration should be staged.

When even the smallest of small towns seems to have lost their "small town" flavor, Flat Rock blossoms on the Fourth of July -- all decked out in lots of red, white and blue, it's patriotism flying from every telephone pole in town. For this one day, everyone can feel the warmth and friendship of Small Town America as the community of Flat Rock proudly celebrates the birth of the United States.

There will be the parade -- comprised of any and all who want to take part in any fashion they choose - there will be the traditional Lawn Social at the local church, and there will be a mini art show, staged by one of this region's most celebrated artists. And, if you're lucky enough to know someone in town, there will be plenty of picnics to be shared.

In past years, there has been a golf tournament down Main Street, a fly-over by an Experimental Aircraft organization, dozens of "community" cook-outs, and lots and lots of socializing. This year, much will be the same. There's no golf tourney or fly-over, the latter cancelled by 9/11 security concerns, but there certainly will still be good reason to pull out a lawn chair or two and make the short drive to Flat Rock south of Bellevue.

Organizers hope hundreds do what they typically do, come enjoy the Lawn Social at Ebenezer United Methodist Church, located near the southern end of the village on Co. Rd. 29, take in the art show, organized by noted local artist James Andrews, and absolutely stay for the parade.

One of the things that always makes the Flat Rock July 4 Parade such a unique event, is that one never knows just who -- or what -- will show up to take part. Started as a Bicentennial event in 1976, for many years a "mystery" man would show up in costume, walking his dog along the parade route. He was never identified and would always vanish as quickly as he arrived.

The element of surprise and the lack of formal organization are what makes this parade most unique. No invitations are sent, there are no registration forms. Volunteers will meet parade participants at the intersection of Co. Rds. 29 (Flat Rock Road) and 34 at the north end of the village. Line-up begins at about 2:30 p.m. with all who choose to participate asked to assemble in line with their float, music, bicycle, car, etc. by 2:45 p.m. Kids on decorated bikes are always welcome; so are people in antique cars and any version of a homemade float that can be created. At least two of the original entries have remained constant: A group of women playing accordions from a truck bed or float and a float featuring many of the youthful residents of the Flat Rock Care Center.

The parade kicks off exactly at 3 p.m. rain or shine. And yes, patience is a virtue as passing trains may interrupt the flow of the parade, although that just gives friends and neighbors more time to visit.

Just come and show up to be involved, say organizers, Flat Rock residents Nate and Kim Root. So far, at least one parade entry is being used as a sneak preview of what will be included in this year's parade. Bellevue resident John Flicker will be driving a 1964-1/2 Ford Mustang, owned by his parents, Al and Betty Flicker, from Sandusky. John may be driving the 'Stang, but Al will be there as well, marching with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Unit.

As for the Ebenezer Lawn Social, church members will be serving up their famous root beer floats and other cool beverages from a stand located at the front of the church, conveniently next to the parade route. At the rear of the church, a full menu of chicken sandwiches, Sloppy Joes, coney dogs, hot dogs, potato and macaroni salads, baked beans, fresh fruit cups and homemade pies will be dished out in the comfort of the church's covered shelter house. Serving will be from noon to 2:30 p.m., stopping just in time for the parade.

The mini art show typically is set up under a small tent at the front of the church and will feature many of Jim Andrews' art pieces in a variety of mediums: Oil and watercolor paintings, wooden carvings and even some stained glass pieces.

Many are already making their plans to be part of the Flat Rock 4th of July Parade, but if more information is needed, feel free to contact Nate and Kim Root at 419-483-3122.